Novo Nordisk's Ozempic (semaglutide) drug is now available to be prescribed in the UK, it has been confirmed.

Ozempic, developed by Danish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk, is a once-weekly GLP-1 analogue injection that works by mimicking a hormone that lowers post-meal blood glucose levels. It reduces blood glucose by stimulating insulin, inhibiting glucagon and slowing down digestion.

The EU licensing was based on findings from the SUSTAIN trial which demonstrated Ozempic had positive impacts on blood glucose and weight loss, and also led to people experiencing cardiovascular benefits.

Ozempic is recommended for use alongside diet and exercise as primary therapy when metformin is considered inappropriate for a person's treatment.

Some of the possible side effects of Ozempic include pancreas inflammation, changes in vision, kidney problems and allergic reactions. Anyone who experiences any related issues must speak to their healthcare provider immediately.

Research is also progressing into oral semaglutide, which was assessed for cardiac safety in a recent trial and found to reduce the risk of adverse cardiovascular events.

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